Principal Spotlight: Dr. Lorie Collier

Chattanooga, TN– In celebration of Principals Appreciation Month, we proudly recognize Dr. Lorie Collier, principal of Harrison Elementary School. Since joining Harrison in 2023, Principal Collier has dedicated her craft to building relationships, fostering an inclusive environment, and inspiring all students to grow both academically and emotionally.

Collier earned her Bachelors degree from Buffalo State College. She later completed her Masters at Tusculum, followed by her first Ed.S. from Lincoln Memorial and her second Ed.S. from the University of Tennessee Knoxville. She then earned her Doctorate in Educational Leadership from University of the Cumberlands. Five years ago, Collier moved to Hamilton County from Knoxville, TN, becoming principal at Calvin Donaldson in 2019. She brought with her a fresh perspective and a dedication to elevating Hamilton County Schools. With 24 years in education, including 11 years as a kindergarten teacher and seven years in administration before Hamilton County, Collier has impacted many lives.

“I personally think I have the best job that there is,” Collier said. “I’m the lead learner and role model for what’s expected not only instructionally and academically for our school, but also for climate and culture. I get to be the strongest advocate for our kids and model the belief that all children deserve to have an adult in their life that loves them unconditionally and will never give up on them.” Elementary education is dear to Collier. “Those foundational years are the years that we’re able to set children up on a trajectory for success for the rest of their lives. You're able to help kids believe, dream, and really unlock potential that they may or may not know that they have, and also have fun.”

Coming to Harrison Elementary, Collier wanted to lead with a fresh mindset. “We are a big school. My initial drive was to create one inclusive community where everyone belonged,” she said. “We have students that represent all parts of Chattanooga. Being able to teach kids and adults to come together and learn about each other and be able to function as one family and one community is very important.” Part of creating that welcoming environment includes Collier’s direct involvement with the students. She is constantly looking to position herself where children are. One of her favorite ways to do this is to simply be present in the children’s days– whether it be saying hello in the hallways, being active in breakfast duty, or one on one time in her office where she can listen to feedback and hear students’ needs. Building these strong, trusting relationships takes time and Principal Collier is happy to do the work.

In addition to developing the school’s climate and culture, Collier is also focused on students’ growth and achievement. “We want to ensure that all of our students are showing growth. And with a dedicated and committed staff returning this year, I believe we're going to see tremendous growth,” Collier said. An event Collier brought to Harrison last year is students being “sprinkled” with glitter on their heads for their achievements. “From benchmark to benchmark or assessment to assessment, any child that shows growth gets an award and gets sprinkled. It's fun to see; the kids really look forward to it. They are great memories– I get to see kids taking an interest in where they are and starting to set goals on where they need to be.”

Principal Lorie Collier’s passion, commitment, and belief in each student’s potential has made her a great leader at Harrison Elementary School. Her influence continues to foster an inclusive community where students are encouraged to dream big and take pride in their growth. We are grateful for Principal Collier’s dedication and look forward to the incredible milestones ahead. Thank you, Principal Collier!